HBV infection in Italian family groups

Boll Ist Sieroter Milan. 1986;65(4):254-60.

Abstract

Intrafamilial spread of HBV infection was evaluated in 85 Italian family groups. Secondary infected cases were observed in 43% of these families, of which 73% showed clusters of HBs positive members, with a prevalence among the family members (children-siblings) of the mother/wife index cases, and no strict relation to their "e" system. The presence of the delta agent in the index case was correlated to a higher percentage of secondary HBs-positive cases, but the intrafamilial spread of delta agent was a rare event. A similar higher incidence of HBV markers was observed among the relatives of the index cases positive for auto-antibodies. The evidence presented suggests the importance of genetic factors in the acquisition and clearance of HBV and delta infections.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Autoantibodies / analysis
  • Child
  • Female
  • Hepatitis B / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis B / genetics*
  • Hepatitis B Antibodies / analysis
  • Hepatitis B Antigens / analysis
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / analysis
  • Hepatitis delta Antigens
  • Humans
  • Italy
  • Male

Substances

  • Autoantibodies
  • Hepatitis B Antibodies
  • Hepatitis B Antigens
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
  • Hepatitis delta Antigens